The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly finalised the qualification pathway for the cricket event at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, and early indicators suggest Pakistan may not play the men’s competition.

 

According to media reports, the ICC, following its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Singapore, has agreed on a regional qualification model for the LA 2028 T20 event. This approach, which also has the backing of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), aims to ensure continental representation and promote the globalisation of cricket.

 

The men’s T20 tournament will feature just six teams. One spot has already been allocated to the host nation, the United States. The remaining five places are likely to be filled by top-ranked teams from each continent. That list is expected to include India (Asia), Australia (Oceania), South Africa (Africa), and Great Britain (Europe).

 

This model would leave traditional cricketing powerhouses like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand outside the direct qualification bracket, raising eyebrows across the cricketing world.

 

Reports indicate that both Pakistan and New Zealand have expressed concerns over the proposed structure, but with formal approval from the ICC board expected soon, a reversal appears unlikely.

 

Only one spot will remain after the five continental qualifiers are decided. The ICC has yet to announce how that final berth will be awarded, but it is speculated that it could be given to a Caribbean representative side, a model similar to the 2022 Commonwealth Games, where Barbados represented the West Indies.

 

Both men’s and women’s cricket competitions at LA 2028 will be played in the T20 format. Scheduled from July 12 to 29, the women’s gold medal match is set for July 20, and the men’s final is scheduled for July 29.

 

Cricket’s return to the Olympic stage comes after a 128-year absence. The sport last featured in the 1900 Paris Games, where Great Britain defeated France in a one-off match to win gold.